President Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto during the celebration of the 54th Jamhuri Day at the Moi Sports Kasarani. [Photo/FB/UK]
The selection by President Uhuru Kenyatta’s team on individuals to receive state honors caused a storm on Tuesday, with Kenyans criticizing the list.
Many Kenyans questions on the criteria used to award the honors, after some names of individuals who have done little for the country came up.
Kenyans blasted President Uhuru Kenyatta on social media for belittling the national awards by rewarding political loyalists, gazetting the names on 12th December during the Jamhuri Day celebrations.
“In recognition of distinguished and outstanding services rendered to the nation in various capacities and responsibilities, I, Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya andCommander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya confer Awards and Honours to the following persons...” read the gazette notice.
Some of the names that raise the storm include; Martin Kamotho alias Githeriman - bloggers Pauline Njoroge and Robert Alai, director digital and diaspora communication at State House Dennis Itumbi, Citizen reporter Jackie Maribe, and radio presenter Njogu Njoroge.
Other artistes awarded included Billy Arocho, the President’s close ally, televangelists Teresia Wairimu and Lucy Ngunjiri, gospel singers Smith Roy Mwita alias Rufftone, and Ben Githae.
According to the law, the President awards national honors to persons who have exhibited or exhibit exemplary qualities, actions or achievements of heroism, sacrifice, bravery, patriotism or leadership for defense, benefit or betterment of the country or a county.